Over 600 Region 2 students engaged in UNICEF mental health programme

Over 600 students gathered at Abraham Zuil School on Monday as UNICEF, Republic Bank Guyana and the Education Ministry launched a programme aimed at promoting positive mental health and well-being among adolescents in Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam).

The school assembly signalled the start of the rollout of the Help Adolescents Thrive (HAT) programme in nine secondary schools across the region. The initiative is designed to encourage positive thinking, emotional well-being, peer support and open discussions about the challenges faced by adolescents.
The launch featured student-led activities that gave young people an opportunity to share their experiences and perspectives on mental health while highlighting the importance of creating supportive school environments where students feel heard and understood.
Republic Bank Guyana Branch Sales Manager Guitree Ramsamooj said the bank was proud to partner with UNICEF to support adolescent mental health and well-being.
“By helping young people feel heard, supported and empowered to navigate life’s challenges, we can make a meaningful difference in their lives and help create a future where every child has the opportunity to thrive,” Ramsamooj said.
UNICEF Health Officer in Guyana, Dr Joann Simson, emphasised the importance of ensuring that children and adolescents feel supported and are encouraged to speak about their concerns.
“Through the Help Adolescents Thrive programme, we want every student to know that they are not alone, that their feelings matter, and that it is okay to speak up and ask for help,” Simson said.
She added that listening to young people and providing safe spaces for them to share their experiences could help build their confidence and resilience.

The launch formed part of activities marking World Mental Health Day, observed on October 10, and Mental Health Month in October.
This year’s theme, “Lived Experiences Heard: Real Voices, Real Change,” highlights the importance of listening to people’s experiences and ensuring their perspectives inform how mental health is understood and addressed.
As part of the October activities, the HAT programme will be rolled out in the remaining eight secondary schools across Region Two. The engagements are expected to promote mental health awareness, challenge stigma and encourage students to seek support when needed.
At the event, students signed a Wall of Hope, sharing positive messages, affirmations and words of encouragement. The wall, positioned at the school’s entrance, is intended to serve as a reminder of the importance of hope, kindness, resilience and supporting one another.